Do you need a stunning venue for your next function? St Margaret’s College is located within the heart of the University of Otago campus. Our charming character filled venue truly ticks every box to make for a fabulous event.

Our People

College Leaders

St Margaret's College has thirteen College Leaders, one per floor.

These are senior students who provide pastoral and academic support to their floor and help with the smooth running of the College. They can be approached at any time with problems or general questions, and are also responsible for monitoring and maintaining standards of behaviour.

Abida Denny

From ChristchurchStudying Biomedical SciencesFloor C floor

Hey everyone! I'm Abida and I'm from Christchurch. I thoroughly enjoyed life at SMC last year and I can't wait to share my experiences with you all this year! My interests include travelling, music, dance and anything to do with art and culture. SMC is a place where I met so many new people, made so many memories and grew academically. It's fair to say I had a blast! This year as college leader I hope to guide you through the academic year and allow you to create your own SMC experience! :)

Alex McLennan

From HamiltonStudying PharmacyFloor WA floor

Hiya!! My name is Alex, and I was born and raised in the mighty Tron (Hamilton). I absolutely love anything outdoors such as; running, tramping and water sports. I am also a real family person. So naturally my favourite times are outdoor activities with my family and/or friends ☺. My first year at university was an amazing experience, and St Margs was a massive contributor to this. So naturally I am very excited for round two, and to meet the St Margs students of 2019. This year is going to be a blast.

Ashish Yadav

From PictonStudying MedicineFloor CB floor

Howdy, the name's Ashish Yadav and I'm a second year medicine student. I was born in hectic New Delhi and lived there till I was 7. I then moved to the serene town of Picton at the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, and have lived there since. In my spare time I enjoy playing sports (especially football) as well as hanging out with family and friends. I am eagerly awaiting the year ahead and getting to know each and every one of you. So, if you see me around, come say G'day!

Isabella Barnett

From ChristchurchStudying MedicineFloor CD floor

Hey! I'm Bella and I am studying medicine. I am from Christchurch and have lived there my whole life, before moving down to Dunedin. This is my 3rd year here, and I don't think there could be anywhere better to go to University. I am very much a family girl, and also love spending time with my friends and animals. My passions include reading, waterskiing and snowboarding. I was a College Leader last year, and absolutely loved the experience and getting to know the members so well. I can't wait to meet you all, and am so excited for all the happy memories that will be made in 2019

Jemma Elley

From WaikatoStudying Biomedical SciencesFloor CC51

Hiya! I’m Jemma from North Waikato and I’m currently in my 2nd year of a Biomedical Sciences degree. I’m a huge geek and love anything that requires a bit of creative flair. Whether it be art, drama, music, cooking… you name it, I’ll be up for it :) Being involved in some form of leadership all throughout high school, I’m eager to give back to St. Margaret’s in the way I know best. Most importantly, it’s a massive privilege to be able to support and encourage college members throughout their personal and academic journeys. And whilst 2019 will definitely be a challenging year, I know it will be immensely rewarding.

Josiah Bugden

From HamiltonStudying Biomedical SciencesFloor B floor

Hi! I’m Josiah. I was born Hamilton, but I’ve lived all over in both NZ and Australia (stoked to be back in Middle Earth for uni!) Last year, St. Marg’s provided me with the best launch pad for uni life – a big part of this great first year student experience was the dedicated team of second and third year students who created such a positive and caring culture at the college and I’m keen to be a part of that team in 2019. I’m into photography, basketball, board games and mountain biking – I’m always down for a trip to grab some icecream or shoot some hoops! Looking forward to meeting you next year :)

Keerthana Ananth

From AucklandStudying DentistryFloor RB floor

Kia Ora! I’m Keerthana, born in Malaysia, raised in India and currently from Auckland. I’m a 3rd year dentistry student who thoroughly enjoys playing sports, basketball is a favourite. My hobbies include reading crime novels, drawing and jamming on the guitar or piano. I have gained so much from the last 2 years I’ve spent at St Margaret’s and wish to continue helping in this role. I’m looking forward to meeting you all and I can’t wait to see your journeys at St Margaret’s begin! Super excited for another great year :D

Laurie Duncan

From BlenheimStudying LawFloor RA floor

Hello! I'm Laurie, and second year Law student. I grew up in Blenheim, but have many family ties to the city of Dunedin - where I am enjoying both Otago University's and St Margaret's communities. Having just spent a year on the St Margs Student Executive as the First Year Rep, and background involvement in both St John Youth and UNYouth, I have experience I am excited to share. I'm looking forward to a great year, meeting you all, and making new memories!

Libby Christophers

From AucklandStudying ZoologyFloor Clyde House

Hi! I’m Libby, a second year studying Zoology, Geography and Marine Science. As a Zoology major, it’s no surprise that I love animals and being outdoors whether I’m tramping, swimming etc. and recently I’ve been learning to surf. Aside from study, I also really enjoy photography, writing, reading and watching nature documentaries. And of course, nothing beats hanging out with family and friends. If you see me around come say hi! I can’t wait to meet you all and see what this next year will hold. I know you’ll come to love Marg’s just as much as I do!

Niamh O'Donnell

From WaimateStudying Politics and sociologyFloor CA floor

Hi! I’m Niamh and currently studying second-year politics and sociology. I come from the small country town of Waimate and have grown up on a farm my entire life. My interests include getting into the outdoors, skiing, playing the piano, all things artistic and spending time with friends and family. I consider St Margaret’s my home away from home and am super excited to work together with the College Leader Team to help all members feel the same. I am looking forward to meeting you all and supporting you throughout 2019.

Priya Patel

From RotoruaStudying MedicineFloor RC floor

Hey! I’m Priya and I’m a third year student studying Medicine. I was born in Rotorua and spent my whole life there before moving to Dunedin for University. I absolutely love performing and have always been very passionate about dance and also drama. I was on the College Leader team last year and loved the opportunity to meet so many new people and help the members of the college. I’m looking forward to continuing the role this year and I hope that we can make 2019 a great year for us all!

Rose Wu

From Palmerston NorthStudying DentistryFloor Thorpe House

Hello!! I’m Rose and am a second year Dentistry student! My parents immigrated from Taiwan to Palmerston North 30 years ago, where I was born and raised. Admittedly living in a city with not much to do, I grew up adoring sports, arts and the outdoors. I’m always keen for a tennis match on the Margs courts or a round of golf. Tinkering away at the piano or getting lost in psychology books are my favourite ways to unwind at the end of a long day.

Last year I had one of the best years of my life at Margs and genuinely cannot wait to help make that magic happen for the 2019 cohort. I really look forward to joining you on the next chapter to come!

Thomas Morgan

From New PlymouthStudying MedicineFloor WB floor

Hiya, I’m Thomas from the Naki. Rain or shine, I love getting outside and messing around either on the farm or hiking out into the middle of nowhere with my family. I can’t wait to meet everyone next year and help out when needed. If you ever need to talk and unload, I’m always ready to listen. I’m so thankful for the opportunity that St Margaret’s has given me and the special role that I have to play in everyone’s 2019 at Otago.